Segmented Carbon Sealing Rings
Introduction
Segmented carbon sealing rings utilize the self-lubricating properties of carbon, making them suitable for both contact and non-contact gland applications to effectively seal liquids and gases with minimal leakage. Commonly used in impulse turbines, fans, blowers, and water and steam turbines, these rings consist of multiple precision-manufactured segments held together by a garter spring to form a complete ring, often allowing interchangeability with similar designs. Traditional configurations use butt-jointed segments, sometimes arranged in multiple rings for improved sealing under stable conditions, while advanced labyrinth designs incorporating graphite enable very small clearances without damaging the shaft, significantly reducing leakage even at high temperatures and pressures. In water turbine applications, wedge-type segmented rings with beveled ends and inserted wedges accommodate wear and enhance sealing efficiency, replacing older tenon-jointed designs.
Technical Specifications
- Shaft Diameter 40.00 mm to 600.00 mm
- Operating Pressure Vacuum to 20 kg/cm²
- Operating Temperature -120°C to +800°C
- Speed Up to 150 m/s
Design and Operation
- The number of segments is calculated based on the shaft diameter
- These segments, similar to armored carbon rings, are staggered within a housing and seal radially against the shaft
- Additional features such as extraction systems, purge gas connections, and grease barriers can be integrated
- Radial contact pressure is applied by a garter spring, ensuring the rings return to their original position after deflection
- The recommended spring force is 1–1.5 N/cm² surface pressure
- The rings are designed to handle radial deflections of up to 5 mm without damage
Ease of Maintenance
A key advantage of segmentation is ease of maintenance. With proper design, sealing rings can be replaced with minimal effort. Successful implementation requires:
- High-quality shaft and cover ring surfaces.
- Coated shaft sleeves or shafts.
For conditions below 200°C and at low sliding speeds, cost-effective polymer seals (with 25% graphite content) are available as alternatives to graphite rings.
Hose springs and drivers are supplied in standard stainless steel or Hastelloy, pre-assembled and designed for the specified groove width.
Application
- Steam and gas turbines
- Water turbines
- Blowers
- Compressors and screw compressors
- Centrifuges and decanters
- Valves
- Rotary dryers
Download Brochure
Download the brochure for sealing solutions, specifications, and technical details.
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